ripeningperiod
nounUK /ˈraɪpənɪŋ ˈpɪəriəd/
US /ˈraɪpənɪŋ ˈpɪriəd/
The time when fruit becomes ready to eat.
The ripening period for these peaches is about three weeks.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The stage in which cheese develops its flavor and texture.
The cheese needs a long ripening period in the cellar.
3. The time during which a plan or idea becomes fully developed.
The project had a slow ripening period before it was ready to launch.
4. The interval when seeds or grains mature before harvest.
Farmers watch the ripening period closely to time the harvest.